The Democratic-controlled Maine Legislature has passed a bill that would protect health care workers providing abortion and gender-affirming care from legal action in other states, joining over a dozen other states with similar protections. If signed by Governor Janet Mills, Maine would shield medical providers from out-of-state investigations related to abortion. Republicans opposed the bill, arguing against protection from out-of-state lawsuits. The Maine Senate voted 21-13 in favor of the bill, following a 76-67 vote in the House. Attorneys general from 16 states, including Tennessee, had threatened legal action if Maine proceeded with the shield law.
Maine Attorney General Aaron Frey defended the necessity of shield laws, stating that they were needed to prevent other states from punishing lawful behavior that occurred in Maine and other states. Frey called the accusations from other states “meritless” and emphasized the importance of promoting harmony between states by exercising restraint when it comes to health care policy choices. The bill saw spirited debate in Maine, with one lawmaker accusing legislative colleagues of bringing divine retribution and having to provide a formal apology on the House floor to speak and vote. Planned Parenthood Maine Action Fund expressed gratitude for lawmakers who voted to protect safe and legal medical care in the state.
Abortion is legal in Maine at all stages of pregnancy with a doctor’s approval, while last year lawmakers approved limited gender-affirming care for 16- and 17-year-olds in some cases without parental consent. However, gender-reassignment surgery for minors requires parental consent under Maine law. Since the U.S. Supreme Court overturned Roe v. Wade and ended a nationwide right to abortion, states have implemented differing policies. Republican-controlled states have imposed bans or restrictions on abortion, while Democrat-dominated states have moved to protect access. At least 13 states have shield laws protecting medical providers from out-of-state investigations on abortion, with at least nine, including Maine, having similar policies through executive orders.
The issue of gender-affirming care for minors has also seen varying policies across states. At least 24 states have passed laws restricting treatments for minors, including puberty blockers, hormone therapy, and gender-affirming surgery. Only two states have executive orders related to gender-affirming care, showing a lack of comprehensive protection for healthcare providers. The passage of the bill in Maine highlights the ongoing debate and legal challenges surrounding reproductive rights and gender-affirming care across the country. The legislation aims to ensure that health care providers can offer these services without facing legal repercussions from other states. The bill’s approval reflects a commitment to protecting access to safe and legal medical care in Maine amid a shifting legal landscape on reproductive rights and gender-affirming care.
